Social media has become a significant part of many people’s lives. Some people don’t think twice about posting what’s going on in their lives to their online “friends.” Some post pictures of their children, or their latest vacation, while others may use it as a sounding board or to vent their frustrations. Despite why and how you use social media, it’s important to know that what you post can negatively impact your divorce.
People spend an average of two and a half hours on social media daily. And the information you post on social media platforms can be used as evidence against you in court, so you can be sure that your soon-to-be-ex and their attorney will be heading straight to your social media profile during your divorce case.
Knowing what you should and shouldn’t post on your social media during divorce proceedings significantly impacts your case’s outcome. Here are some tips to keep in mind when using social media during your divorce.
Avoid Using Social Media
You read that right, avoid social media. That’s the easiest way to avoid any posts that may hurt your divorce case.
Don’t Delete Anything
Deleting your social media account or even past posts can be considered destroying evidence, which is illegal and could land you in more trouble with the courts. So, wait until your divorce is finalized to clean up your social media profiles.
Social Media Posts are Forever
Before you click “Post” be sure to double or even triple-check what you’re posting to make sure it’s something you wouldn’t mind the judge overseeing your divorce seeing. Because even if your ex can no longer see your posts, it’s still possible that someone else grabbed a screenshot of your post to share with them, and if that happens, it’s likely that it will end up as evidence in your case.
Keep Your Partying Off of Social Media
So you’re out living it up, being the life of the party. However, it’s important to make sure you’re keeping that information off of social media. Posting photos of you using or being around drugs and alcohol can affect your divorce. And if children are involved in your divorce, these types of posts can be used to prove that you are an unfit parent.
Wait to Announce a New Relationship
Changing your relationship status on social media or going public with a new relationship can cause problems during your divorce, as you are still legally married until the divorce is final.
Don’t Talk Bad About Your Spouse
Divorce sometimes brings out the worst in people. But choosing to talk badly about your spouse on social media can negatively impact your divorce.
This is especially true if there are children involved. A judge will likely pay close attention to how parents treat each other when determining a child custody order. With the children’s best interest as the main priority, judges want to ensure that parents can act appropriately in front of their children. Making disparaging comments on social media can be used against the parent who posted the comments.
Monitor What Family and Friends Are Posting
While it is essential to watch what you’re posting, posts made by friends and family can have an equally negative effect on your divorce. Not only should you watch for posts that may be bad-mouthing your spouse or mentioning your divorce, but you should also watch someone tagging you in posts or photos.
Maybe you’re at a party or out with friends having a couple of drinks, and someone posts a photo of the night and tags you in it. Your spouse could see that photo.
If you weren’t where you said you would be, or if you were out on the town when you were supposed to be home with the kids, it could cause problems during your divorce and custody case. The best thing you can do is ask family and friends to avoid posting anything about you until the divorce is final.
Don’t Talk About Your Case
Even if you can’t believe what your spouse did in court or what their attorney said about you, don’t head to social media to vent about it. Talking about your case online can only cause more problems. Speak to your family law attorney about any issues, and don’t turn to social media.
Avoid Overexaggerating Your Financial Status
Posting about shopping sprees or buying a new car during your divorce, especially when your typical spending habits are more conservative, can lead your spouse and the courts to believe that you are better off financially than you have stated. Flaunting new extravagances can affect how much child or spousal support you are awarded or required to pay.
Trust the Experts at Hann Law Firm
Social media is being used more often in determining the division of marital assets, child custody, alimony, and child support. Don’t underestimate the consequences of social media interactions during your divorce. If you aren’t sure if you should post something, err on the side of caution and just avoid posting it, or contact your divorce attorney for advice.
If you’re looking for a skilled, dedicated attorney for your divorce case, Hann Law Firm can help. We take a personal approach to every case. We’ll listen to your needs and address any concerns you have. Our team will prepare your case for the best possible outcome for you and your family.
You and your case matter to us. Contact us today for a consultation.
